Lincoln Parish became the subject of international news earlier this year when 3-year-old Max Shatto, an adopted Russian boy, died unexpectedly in January 2013. Because of the family’s local ties, the young boy’s funeral was held in Ruston, which drew Russian media representatives to the parish. Shatto’s body allegedly showed signs of bruises, though his death was officially ruled an accident. This story became part of the international debate that eventually led Russia to ban Americans from adopting Russian children.

University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors Chair Wayne Parker announces the appointment of 11 members to the Louisiana Tech University Presidential Search Committee. The committee will hold its first meeting and a public forum on the Ruston campus on Sept. 25.
After 46 years of service including 26 years as president, Dan Reneau will retire from Louisiana Tech University on June 30, 2013.